From Grapes to Giraffes: Ronnie Semler’s Malibu Wines Story
📍 Guest: Ronnie Semler – Founder, Malibu Wines & Beer Garden & Saddlerock Ranch
đź“Ť Location: West Hills, CA
Join Paul Ward On the Road with Ronnie Semler, the visionary behind Malibu Wines & Beer Garden and Saddlerock Ranch. In this inspiring interview, Ronnie shares how he transformed a fire-ravaged Malibu ranch into a thriving vineyard, animal sanctuary, and destination experience featuring estate-grown wines, exotic animals like zebras and giraffes,
and one-of-a-kind events. From surviving the Woolsey Fire to expanding into a Texas safari adventure, Ronnie’s story is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and creating joy for visitors from around the world. 🍷🦒
Watch Full episode HERE
⏱ Episode Timestamps
00:06 – Welcome & Introduction
Paul welcomes Ronnie Semler, founder of Malibu Wines & Beer Garden, and introduces the historic West Hills location.
00:47 – The Historic Building
Ronnie shares the colorful history of the Alamo-style structure, once home and stables to silent film star Francis Lederer.
02:06 – Acquiring the Property
A chance hospital visit leads Ronnie to purchase the building and transform it into a thriving wine and beer garden.
03:21 – Estate-Grown Wines
An overview of Semler’s estate wines grown at Saddlerock Ranch and the varieties they produce.
04:54 – The Birth of Saddlerock Ranch
How a devastating 1978 Malibu fire led Ronnie to purchase and rebuild the ranch, eventually expanding to 1,000 acres.
07:07 – From Avocados to Grapes
After losing crops to frost, Ronnie transitions from avocados to vineyards—discovering grapes use far less water.
08:25 – First Tasting Room
The humble beginnings of Malibu Wines, starting with small sales that grew into massive weekend crowds.
09:42 – Exotic Animals & Unique Experiences
Saddlerock Ranch becomes known for its zebras, bison, alpacas, llamas, and even a giraffe named Stanley.
10:45 – Surviving the Woolsey Fire
Ronnie recounts evacuating over 150 animals and losing more than 100 structures, but saving every life.
11:54 – Rebuilding & Recent Challenges
The difficulties of rebuilding post-fire and the added heartache of his son’s recent loss in the Palisades fire.
12:57 – Life After Malibu
Expansion to Texas, moving exotic animals, and preparing to launch a safari business in Brock, TX.
14:22 – Growing Great Grapes
Ronnie’s philosophy on vineyard care—from soil quality to irrigation—and the key to great wine.
15:31 – Current Vineyard Operations
Replanting efforts in Malibu, now totaling around 50 acres and producing for tasting rooms in CA & TX.
16:07 – Family in the Wine Business
Two of Ronnie’s daughters now play key roles in the Texas wine operation and club management.
17:16 – Beyond Wine
Malibu Wines offers yoga, pizza, jewelry making, candle workshops, and more for visitors.
17:49 – Limited Public Access to the Ranch
Some activities continue through wine hikes, movie shoots, and special approvals.
19:18 – Chumash Indian History
The ranch holds a significant archaeological site with ancient cave paintings, shared with schools and visitors.
21:12 – Why Texas?
Fewer regulations and a different way of life fuel Ronnie’s enthusiasm for his Texas ranch.
21:19 – How to Visit
Malibu Wines is open 7 days a week in West Hills, CA. Info at malibuwines.com.
22:02 – Closing
Paul thanks Ronnie for sharing his incredible journey from rebuilding after fires to creating unique wine and safari experiences.
Related Episodes:
Guardians of the Wild: Dr. Laurie Marker’s Mission to Save the CheetahsÂ
Strumming Through Life: The Sierra Drummond Story
đź“ŤMalibu Wines:
info@malibuwines.com
23130 Sherman Way
West Hills CA 91307
818-578-4146
👉Contact Paul Ward:
homeandranch.com
p. 805-479-5004
e. paul@homeandranchteam.com
📢 Thank You to Our Sponsor:
Opus Escrow — making this episode possible.
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